Lynn Gorfinkle and Josh Spiegelman -the inspired and conscientious owners of Roam Artisan Burgers, with two San Francisco locations and one in the East Bay - have made a hamburger that's a cut above all the rest. Every ingredient on Roam's menu is selected by taking into account what contributes to the long-term well-being of the entire natural ecosystem. This is not a slap-some-pickles-and-some-meat-on-a-bun operation, in other words. Roam's classic burgers are made with 100% grass-fed, grass-finished beef from Pacific Pastures. And, yes, for those who do not like gluten in their buns, Roam has you covered there, as well.
Recommended for Family Friendly because: What's more kid-friendly than a big burger? Can't argue with that. And parents will be happy with the meal, too.
Tom's expert tip: For those up for game meat, try the bison burger.
If you still have savory dreams from childhood of two slices of perfectly buttered toast squeezing out melted cheddar cheese, this restuarant is for you. And, even though the recipe is simple, they take their one product very seriously, with "Commander in Cheese" Heidi Gibson dreaming up delectable sandwiches such as "The Mousetrap," which has an unforgettable mix of Tillamook Cheddar, havarti and Monterrey jack. And since grilled cheese should go hand-in-hand with tomato soup, be sure to order a to-go cup of their house-made Smoky Tomato Soup. If you think you know grilled cheese sandwiches, swing by The American Grilled Cheese Kitchen and get an education about this simple American masterpiece.
Recommended for Family Friendly because: Kids can't pass up gooey cheese, and that's what the American Grilled Cheese Kitchen is all about.
Tom's expert tip: The line for lunch can be very long, so try to go during off hours if you're in a hurry.
While Bay Area brunch restaurants are not hard to come by, Zazie's is one of a few local gems that keeps customers coming back despite its long, out-the-door lines. The eatery is renowned for its gingerbread pancakes but also features more savory options like scrambled egg plates and chicken-apple sausage. It's easy to customize your order with one, two or three pieces, and there are plenty of attractive sandwiches and salads to choose from, too. Zazie's is tucked away in central and idyllic Cole Valley, just a few blocks from Haight Street and golden Gate Park and right along the convenient N-Judah line.
Recommended for Family Friendly because: Although it's a small French bistro, it's a favorite spot for local families of Cole Valley.
Tom's expert tip: Although it's known for brunch, the dinners are special, too, featuring dishes such as Truite de Camille.
Specializing in fish, Pacific Catch combines innovative cooking styles from Asia, Latin America and Hawaii with fresh, local ingredients to create a California-style cuisine all its own. Patron favorites include the raved-about island fish tacos (also available with chicken or steak), as well as the pan-Asian rice bowls. The signature sweet potato fries are a must-have accompaniment to any of the seafood baskets, which feature Thai coconut shrimp, crispy oysters or a mixed catch. The staff is very responsive to your specific order, including gluten-free options. Locations in the South Bay, North Bay and two in San Francisco - including one right next to Golden Gate Park.
Recommended for Family Friendly because: Pacific Catch is roomy enough for families, and it's right across the street from Golden Gate Park.
Tom's expert tip: Pacific Catch teams up with many local charities, so you can feel good about where you're spending your money.
On the hunt for top-notch Chinese food? Check out Yank Sing, one of the city's most popular spots for authentic Asian fare. Here, deem sum carts laden with enticing, freshly made offerings make their way to each dining room table, affording patrons such must-have options as spring rolls and pot stickers, barbecued meats, Peking duck and soft-shell crab. For those seeking quick noontime eats, the combination lunch is a terrific option. Although they take their food very seriously, the service is efficient and friendly enough for everyone from business people to large families. As Yak Sing puts it, they have "seduced the palate of all ages."
Recommended for Family Friendly because: Yank Sing is a large space and almost constantly busy, so families should feel comfortable.
Tom's expert tip: Gorgeous dim sum keeps folks coming back for more.
Sotto Mare's old-school Italian ambiance and incredibly fresh fare receive rave reviews from North Beach natives and Bay Area visitors alike. The restaurant is known for its traditional baccala, savory crab cioppino and Boston-style clam chowder, but the menu also features oysters and clams on the half shell, seafood risotto and daily fresh fish selections. Imported beer and wine parings round out an excellent meal. Patrons can also purchase fresh fish for retail value. Sotto Mare is a wonderful example of San Francisco's bountiful bay meeting up with the Italian joy of cooking, so you'll get a healthy bite of both cultures at this memorable restaurant.
Recommended for Family Friendly because: Sotto Mare is run by a "Close-knit Italian family," so they definitely understand the importance of families eating together.
Tom's expert tip: The combos are plenty for two!
The Brick Yard, located in San Francisco's Cow Hollow district, is a local's haven and includes family style seating and an elevated outside patio facing Union Street. The restaurant also features high-definition TVs and a full-service kitchen offering a menu geared toward healthier eating options. The Brick Yard was also designed with private events in mind. Choose from a variety of menu options that will suit all of your needs, whether you're looking for hors d'oeuvres or a full service seated dinner. For those with small children, the staff of the Brick Yard are specifically trained to attend to your unique needs.
Recommended for Family Friendly because: The Brick Yard advertises itself as a neighborhood bar, with many neighbors being families.
Tom's expert tip: The Brick Yard is also a great place to catch 49er and Giants games.
One of three locations, the Valencia Street restaurant in the Mission District is where the magic that is Pica Pica first happened in 2010. Fitting in perfectly with its surroundings full of Latin flair, this Maize Kitchen is open for lunch, dinner and dessert. Most popular on the menu is the arepa (pocket composed of grilled corn and stuffed with vegetables, plantains, beans, cheese or meats. . .your choice). Also sample the ceviche or yuca fries as a starter. Don't leave without having a glass of sangria and a taste of dessert (yuca beignets or coconut quesillo). Bringing pure food, fantastic flavors and environmental awareness, all take-out containers are completely biodegradable.
Recommended for Family Friendly because: Although not as roomy as other selections on this list, Pica Pica offers small, fun plates, usually a hit with kids.
Tom's expert tip: This is a small space with limited seating, so get your food to go during busy hours.
Urban Putt opens at 4 p.m. on weekdays, 11 a.m. on weekends; a round of golf for adults is $12 and just $8 for kids five through 12. Besides the mesmerizing, hand-crafted course exhibits, Urban Putt has a full restaurant and bar in case you need that break on the back seven. The bar bites menu is available all day, and the full restaurant upstairs opens at 5:30 p.m. Fried chicken and waffle skewers highlight the bar bites menu, and the sea scallops and white prawns in almond romesco sauce with sides of garlic lemon / herb potatoes and sugar snap peas is a favorite on the dinner menu.
Recommended for Family Friendly because: Urban Putt offers "eclectic California comfort cuisine," which pairs perfectly with putt putt golf.
Tom's expert tip: Adult palates should indulge in the Putt-Putt Paella: Wild prawns, free range chicken, mediterranean mussels, spanish chorizo, roasted peppers, english peas and saffron rice.
Waterbar knows it's a beautiful restaurant in a beautiful city - and makes the most of it. Designer Pat Kuleto spared no expense to insure diners will walk away with a complete ocean experience, including floor to ceiling aquariums full of Pacific Marine life. Some of what's swimming in the tanks might look tasty, too - including the calamari, "dip net" caught in nearby San Pedro. Although the atmosphere at night can range from somewhat casual to very formal dining, Waterbar does make an effort to cater to families. Since the Embarcadero is a hotspot for families, the Waterbar staffed is well-trained for that specific clientele.
Recommended for Family Friendly because: Waterbar is right on the Embarcadero, a great spot for kids of all ages.
Tom's expert tip: Bold, stylish dining experience - great for a fancy night out.